1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 3,197 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (224 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. (185 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 300 kg more than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. (260 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1987 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | SL | 300 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3197 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 224 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 88.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 238 km/hour | 207 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.4 seconds | 9.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 72 L |
